AGRATE – The F.C. Internazionale youth academy had its traditional Christmas do on Monday night.
Nerazzurri academy director Roberto Samaden opened proceedings.
“There are almost 700 of us here – girls, boys, coaches, staff and all the other people who work for our academy every day. I want to thank the club for the fantastic support they've given us for so many years. We've changed presidents and owners but the level of support for our young players has never changed.
“I'd like to thank Steven Zhang for being here, Bedy Moratti, Stefano Pioli and all the club management who are behind us every day.
Of course I also thank all the boys and girls who go out and play for us because regardless of results they always try to do their best for the club. Winning is important but it's even more important for them to make it in the professional game.
"We've already had four people make the step up to the first team this year: Miangue, Pinamonti and Bakayoko, besides our U19 coach Vecchi.”
The Primavera boss himself was called up on stage to speak about his time in charge of the senior squad.
“It was a fantastic experience," Stefano Vecchi recalled. "My backroom team and I are happy and proud of the work we did. It was an intense week with two intense matches.
"Our aim is to develop our players and hopefully we'll obtain more success in 2017.”
Stefano Pioli then said a few words.
“Passion makes the difference and I see plenty of that here. I wish each and every one of these boys the best of luck and I'd like to congratulate the people who work for the Nerazzurri academy on a daily basis.”
Steven Zhang was also in attendance and he had an important message.
"The youth academy plays a central role in Suning's plans. It's so fundamental that the club works with our youngsters in the best way possible to help them grow. That's a promise we can make.
"I'm really proud of that fact that Inter's academy is one of the best in Italy and Europe. I'd like to thank Roberto Samaden and everyone else who works day in day out with our kids. They are a wonderful example of the values we want to pass on."
There were lots of Inter Forever members at the event, including Francesco Toldo, Dejan Stankovic, Nicola Berti and Gianfranco Matteoli, and vice president Javier Zanetti was of course among them.
"As we've said before, regardless of our success the most important thing for our young players is the values they represent," the former club captain explained. "I wish these kids a great future. Remember, you might encounter difficulties on the way but you can always pick yourself up and get going again.
"Happy Christmas everybody and let's hope 2017 is a successful year for our beloved Inter!"
